White House Easter egg roll exhibit will promote plant biology

The American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB) returns to participate in the White House's annual Easter Monday celebration. This year, the Easter Egg Roll occurs on April 1.

"ASPB has a fun suite of activities planned for this year's event that were designed to spark interest, foster curiosity and generate discussion about plant biology," said Erin Friedman, ASPB's Education Committee Chair.

The 2024 Easter Egg roll continues a time-honored tradition of thousands of veterans and military families, caregivers, survivors, and community members gathering to enjoy festivities and entertainment on the South Lawn of the White House.

"At the ASPB booth, visitors will be challenged to think about how they use plants in their daily lives, through food, fuel, and fibers. They will get a chance to dissect a lima bean to learn how plants grow and develop, and they will create a necklace that contains a garden cup with seeds that they can continue to grow at home," Friedman added.

Attendees can choose to participate in a range of activities across the White House Lawn running from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Past events have featured costumed characters, crafts, talent shows, dancing, cooking classes, obstacle courses and storytime in addition to the traditional egg roll and egg hunt.

The recurring EGGucation theme this year pays tribute to First Lady Jill Biden's three decades as an educator. It will feature activities that engage children and families in the benefits of exercising, healthy eating, farming, and more.

"Engaging kids and their families in activities and discussions about plant biology is among the core goals of ASPB's education initiative," explained Friedman.

"We hope that the kids and their families will leave this event with a greater appreciation for plants and an enhanced understanding of how plants grow. Our lives are truly plant-powered, and I can't wait to share this fact with the 45,000 White House visitors."

Attendees leave with any crafts they create as well as a commemorative wooden egg. The Official 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll set is also available for purchase online.

History

The first White House Easter Egg Roll occurred on April 23, 1878 under President Rutherford B. Hayes. It is one of the oldest annual traditions in White House History and has grown into an educational experience for thousands. It is a public event and is open to the media.

Provided by American Society of Plant Biologists